Islamorada FloridaRESTAURANTS & PLACES TO EAT
Listed below are some of the best restaurants and places to eat near Islamorada, Florida.
1. Whale Harbor Seafood Buffet
SEAFOOD BUFFET EXTRAVAGANZA
Whale Harbor Seafood Buffet offers a grand buffet experience centered around fresh local seafood and classic Keys flavors. The nautical theme and spacious, lively dining room provide guests with a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Diners can enjoy a wide variety of seafood options, including crab legs, shrimp, and oysters, making it a popular choice for groups and seafood lovers.
2. Mangrove Mike's Café
CLASSIC KEYS BREAKFAST
Mangrove Mike's Café is a beloved breakfast and lunch spot known for its vibrant, laid-back décor and friendly, welcoming staff. The menu emphasizes hearty portions of American classics with a Keys twist, such as omelets, pancakes, and fresh seafood specialties. With its colorful interior and casual vibe, Mangrove Mike's is a staple for both locals and visitors seeking a comforting start to their day.
3. Ziggie & Mad Dog's
STEAKHOUSE WITH HISTORY
Ziggie & Mad Dog's is a legendary steakhouse combining timeless elegance with Old Florida charm, making it a destination for special occasions and classic dining. The menu focuses on expertly prepared steaks, seafood, and American comfort food, creating a refined yet welcoming experience. The dimly lit, wood-accented atmosphere adds to its reputation for memorable evenings.
4. Morada Bay Beach Café
BEACHFRONT CARIBBEAN DINING
Morada Bay Beach Café sits directly on the sand, offering a tropical, open-air setting with panoramic ocean views. The menu draws inspiration from Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh fish, sandwiches, and creative cocktails. Its laid-back, breezy ambiance makes it an ideal spot for picturesque sunsets and relaxed beachside meals.
5. Chef Michael's
UPSCALE LOCAL SEAFOOD
Chef Michael's is renowned for its upscale yet unpretentious approach to dining, emphasizing locally sourced seafood and inventive preparations. The restaurant's menu rotates with the daily catch, often highlighting lionfish, hogfish, and expertly crafted desserts. Its cozy setting and attentive service create an intimate, refined dining experience.
6. Islamorada Shrimp Shack
SHRIMP LOVERS' HAVEN
Islamorada Shrimp Shack specializes in shrimp dishes, ranging from fried shrimp baskets to shrimp fritters, drawing fans of this classic local staple. The casual, nautical-themed décor and family-friendly setting offer a no-frills, welcoming Keys dining experience. It's a go-to destination for guests seeking authentic flavors and fresh seafood in a relaxed environment.
7. Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar
SUNSET WATERFRONT BAR
Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar boasts a prime waterfront setting perfect for catching sunsets, live music, and breezy outdoor dining. The menu features fresh local seafood, tropical cocktails, and casual American fare in a distinctly Keys-style, open-air setting. Frequent entertainment and a lively crowd make Lorelei's a staple for both tourists and locals seeking a festive dining experience.
8. Green Turtle Inn Restaurant
HISTORIC KEYS EATERY
Green Turtle Inn Restaurant is an iconic Islamorada institution, celebrated for its classic Keys ambiance and extensive seafood-centric menu. The restaurant serves beloved dishes like turtle chowder, conch fritters, and fresh catches, all in a warm, retro-inspired setting. Its storied history and welcoming staff ensure a memorable visit for those seeking a true taste of island tradition.
9. Lazy Days Restaurant
OCEANFRONT DINING ESCAPE
Lazy Days Restaurant is prized for its expansive oceanfront deck, offering diners panoramic sea views and a laid-back, breezy ambiance. The extensive menu highlights fresh-caught seafood prepared Keys-style, from grilled fish to conch specialties, and patrons can even bring their own catch to be cooked to order. With its casual atmosphere and unbeatable waterfront setting, Lazy Days is perfect for relaxed family or group gatherings.
10. Bayside Gourmet
ITALIAN-AMERICAN FAVORITE
Bayside Gourmet blends Italian and American cuisines in a casual, family-friendly environment, featuring homemade pizzas, pastas, and deli sandwiches. The restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a welcoming, unpretentious vibe. Its convenient location and diverse menu make it a reliable choice for lunch or dinner in the heart of Islamorada.